Optimal Strategy

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Chase recently released the Chase Ink Unlimited card, which led us to the question, "which Chase business card or card combination is the most optimal?"

To keep things simple, we're only going to analyze the Chase Ink cards on the market right now, and not factor in grandfathered cards.

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Basics

The Chase Ink Unlimited and the Chase Ink Cash both have a $0 annual fee with 0% intro APR, and the Chase Ink Preferred has a $95 annual fee with an APR % fee.

Multipliers

Each colored block in the spreadsheet has a combined cap. For example, the red block under the Chase Ink Cash means that you'll only earn 5x points on combined purchases for office supplies and internet, cable, and phone bills.

Chase Ink Unlimited

Earn an unlimited 1.5x points on everything

Chase Ink Cash

Earn 2x on gas stations and dining, on up to $25,000 in combined purchases

Earn 5x on office supplies and internet, cable, and phone bills, on up to $25,000 in combined purchases

Earn 1x on everything else

Chase Ink Preferred

Earn 3x on internet, cable, and phone services, travel, shipping, and advertising, on up to $150,000 in combined purchases

Earn 1.5x on everything else

Points Valuation

Place an "X" on how you plan to use the points. Select only one redemption method.

The value of the signup bonus will change based on the redemption method you select.

Spend multipliers

In the spend multipliers section, enter the dollar amounts you would spend in each category to see which cards you should get.

If you're someone who runs a lot of ads, the Chase Ink Preferred is the optimal route.

For example, if you have a $10,000 ad budget per month, that comes out to be $120,000/year in ad spend. One client could easily get you 80% of the 3x cap of $150,000 for 3x back.

FAQ

Q: Can you pool UR points between personal/business cards?

A: Yes, you can pool personal/business points together as long as you're in the same household and ideally, you have the same last name.

Q: Can you combine hard inquiries for Chase Ink cards?

A: With Chase, you can combine hard inquiries, but personal and business cards will always be two hard inquiries since they're different departments.

If you apply for two Chase Ink cards on the same day, Chase will issue two hard inquiries, but the credit bureau will only account for one pull because they think the second inquiry is a mistake.

As a side note, if you're just starting out with business cards, I don't recommend applying for two at the same time because it could be seen as high-risk behavior.

Q: What's the optimal application timeline?

A: The ideal timeline is to apply for the Chase Ink card when you're under 5/24. Chase Ink cards are affected by the 5/24 rule, but they don't count towards it.

Q: Does Plastiq still code as 3x for the Chase Ink Preferred?

A: As of writing this post, yes. Be aware that this can change at any time.

Plastiq is a service that lets you use your credit card in places that otherwise wouldn't accept card payments. There is a 2.5% flat fee for all transactions.

Apple and Goldman Sachs will partner to create a new iPhone-connected credit card set to launch later this year. According to the WSJ, the card will integrate with the iPhone to track spending, points, and help with budget management.

Booking a flight with the right credit card can make or break a trip, especially if unexpected delays happen. Missed connections or canceled flights can leave a hole in your wallet, and some airlines will only provide food vouchers and overnight accommodations if the delay with within their control.

There’s a misconception going around that the Amex Platinum card earns 5x on ALL hotel stays. To clarify, the Amex Platinum only earns 5x points when you book hotel nights through amextravel.com or the Fine Hotels and Resorts Collection (FHR).

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Editorial Note: Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, vendors or companies, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

AskSebby Disclaimer: Content on AskSebby represents one individual’s experiences and viewpoints, and your experience may differ. The owner of this site is not an investment advisor, financial planner, nor a legal or tax professional. Articles here are of an opinion and general nature and should not be relied upon for individual circumstances. Research and obtain professional advice regarding all credit decisions before attempting to duplicate any of the techniques described on this website.